Many of California’s outdoor experiences are truly unique; the state’s diverse topography has created special natural attractions that can only be found in the Golden State. For outdoor enthusiasts of all levels, here are some of the top activities and attractions to add to your “must-do” list this year.
Backcountry ski at Mount Shasta or wakeboard on Shasta Lake
Watch the sunrise at Zabriskie Point in Death Valley
Bike the deserts of Joshua Tree National Park
Camp along the ocean-view bluffs in Big Sur
Discover the awesome power of “Mavericks,” surfing north of Half Moon Bay
Explore the Channel Islands’ endemic species and paddle to Painted Cave, one of the world’s largest and deepest sea caves
Climb Mount Whitney
Climb the face of El Capitan or ascend Half Dome in Yosemite National Park
Explore Carlsbad’s Aviara Trails and Batiquitos Lagoon for premier birdwatching
Explore giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove, coast redwoods in the Muir Woods and horseback ride in Redwood National Park
Hike Lassen Volcanic National Park’s “Bumpass Hell” trail along hydrothermal areas
Play beach volleyball at Manhattan Beach, where Olympians like Kerri Walsh-Jennings train
Surf and ski in the same day
Canoe and take a sunset walking tour to explore Mono Lake’s million-year old ecosystem
Hike the “Lost Coast” along California’s rugged northern shoreline
Urban kayak beneath the Golden Gate Bridge
Visit California for more information
